Strenghtening Youth work in Rural and Urban Communities

This study visit provides youth workers with valuable insights into Dutch youth work practices, particularly from organizations like LEVgroep and local partners. By observing and engaging with experienced Dutch practitioners, they will enhance their skills and competences in key areas relevant to youth work.

• Youth Participation: Youth workers will learn how Dutch organizations empower young people to take an active role in decision-making. They will gain practical strategies to create platforms for youth voices, encourage leadership, and ensure inclusive participation.
• Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD): A key principle in Dutch youth work, ABCD focuses on recognizing and utilizing the strengths of individuals and communities. Portuguese youth workers will explore how this method encourages young people to take ownership of their skills and actively contribute to their communities.
• Talent-Oriented Work: By seeing how Dutch youth workers support young people in identifying and developing their strengths, the visiting participants will acquire methods to nurture youth talents, helping them pursue personal and professional growth.
• Mentoring and Individual Guidance: Mentoring is a central element of Dutch youth work, fostering strong relationships that provide guidance and support to young people. Portuguese participants will observe mentoring models that build trust and resilience, and they can adapt these approaches to their own practice.
• Non-Formal Education Methodologies: Youth workers will explore innovative, experience-based learning methods used in the Netherlands. They will gain insights into creative, participatory approaches that develop critical thinking, communication skills, and personal growth among young people.
• Social Awareness and Civic Engagement: Dutch youth work actively addresses social issues such as sustainability, mental health, and social justice. Participants will learn how to integrate these themes into their own work, using creative and engaging methods to encourage young people to take action.
• Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Approaches: In the Netherlands, youth work is deeply interconnected with schools, municipalities, and social services. Participants will observe best practices in cross-sector collaboration and discover strategies for building stronger networks to support young people in their communities.

While the primary focus is on the learning outcomes for the Portuguese youth workers, this exchange also fosters mutual learning. Dutch youth workers gain fresh perspectives on youth work approaches in Portugal, opening opportunities for new insights and future collaborations. By sharing experiences, both parties strengthen their professional development and contribute to innovation in youth work practices.